Media Release
29 September 2009
Attention: Business, Rural, IT reporters
Farewell TSO. Satellite next step for rural
Farmside CEO, Tony Baird today welcomed the Communications and Information Minister, Steven Joyce’s reform of the
Telecommunications Services Obligation and establishment of a transparent industry levy that focuses on developing rural
telecommunications.
Farmside also note and supports the continuation of free local calling as part of the requirement recognising the
importance of connecting rural communities by voice and broadband.
“This move by the minister will better suit the needs of our high-yield primary sector,” says Baird. “It will create a
level playing field which is transparent and competitive, to drive the delivery of fast broadband to rural communities
that are surviving on twentieth century copper”.
Farmside, one of New Zealand’s leading satellite broadband suppliers which currently connects 10,000 customers, is
pleased the minister’s plans present a new opportunity for satellite to be made available for people in remote New
Zealand, through the provision of grants for the upfront costs of equipment and installation.
Baird also sent a stark reminder today that with a government commitment of approximately $50 million Farmside could
connect 50,000 rural properties within the year through existing satellite technology.
Despite this range of growing demands and the isolation and geographical challenges associated with supplying many rural
properties, the focus is still on supplying through fibre networks.
Baird highlights, laying fibre to some remote areas is deemed to be “commercially non viable” and it will take many
years to complete. Satellite is available to 100% per cent of New Zealand today, no matter how remote and rugged the
farm.
“Satellite is a broadband simple solution to a tough national issue and as such should form part of the Broadband
Initiative. Especially in underserved rural areas where it is economically unjustified to provide fibre solution”.
Incorporating satellite into the government’s broadband investment initiative is the next positive step for Joyce to get
rural people getting online today with an affordable, reliable broadband solution today.
ENDS